Introduction

This guide gives simple directions on how to replace the front derailleur cable, an important component that is easy to replace. The derailleur is the part of the bike that allows a rider to quickly shift gears while riding. Most bikes have two, one in the front and one in the back. This guide deals only with the front one. A broken or overly frayed derailleur cable can cause the derailleur to misalign, create difficulty shifting, or prevent the chain from going on any of the sprockets (gears).

Add Comment

To get a better angle into the shifter mechanism or the exit housing, use the upshifter and downshifter to rotate the shifting mechanism, similar to the way downshifting could be used to force out the end in Step 6.

Add Comment

The chain should be roughly centered in the derailleur, so that no extra friction is caused, and that the chain is not unintentionally pushed off the sprocket.

If not in the correct position, reloosen the tightening bolt and redo step 13. This may take several tries.

Make sure the shifter is in the same position as the chain. For example, in these pictures the chain is in position 2, and so is the shifter (the gears are numbered smallest to biggest). Otherwise the bike will not be able to properly shift.

Add Comment

Add Comment

1024

Almost done!

Before putting away the tools, test the alignment of the derailleur by shifting between the gears while pedaling the bike to make sure it smoothly and easily changes gears. If not, the tightening bolt can be readjusted until it is properly adjusted. Also look into the derailleur adjustment screws on the top of the derailleur for fine adjustment if desired.

Conclusion

Before putting away the tools, test the alignment of the derailleur by shifting between the gears while pedaling the bike to make sure it smoothly and easily changes gears. If not, the tightening bolt can be readjusted until it is properly adjusted. Also look into the derailleur adjustment screws on the top of the derailleur for fine adjustment if desired.

Resources

Repairability

Stay in the loop

It's time to speak out for your right to repair

We have a chance to guarantee our right to repair electronic
equipment—like smartphones, computers, and even farm equipment. This is a once-in-a-generation
chance to protect local repair jobs—the corner mom-and-pop repair shops that
keep getting squeezed out by manufacturers.

Join the cause and tell your state representative to support Right to Repair. Tell them you believe repair should be fair, affordable, and accessible. Stand up for your right to repair!